AMES, Iowa — The Iowa Urban and Community Forestry Council has recognized Robert Dodds, regional director for Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, as an Outstanding Professional for 2012. Dodds was presented the award at the 23rd Annual Urban and Community Forestry Awards Luncheon on April 2.

AMES, Iowa — The Iowa Urban and Community Forestry Council has recognized Robert Dodds, regional director for Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, as an Outstanding Professional for 2012. Dodds was presented the award at the 23rd Annual Urban and Community Forestry Awards Luncheon on April 2.

Robert Dodds has worked with ISU Extension and Outreach for more than three decades, and as a regional director since 2009. For nearly 20 years Dodds has been on the air every Saturday with his popular radio show “Let’s Get Growing.” During the show he answers horticulture questions from the tri-state area.

Dodds offers a variety of ISU Extension and Outreach educational opportunities in southeast Iowa, including the Master Woodland Managers and Master Gardener programs. Dodds has also been a leader in community outreach and education; it is common to see him in schools throughout the year sharing his knowledge with elementary school children.

The Council recognized Dodd as, “An outstanding example of Iowa’s community forestry professionals for his work enhancing our forest resources. The decades that Dodds has labored to design projects and educate the public will benefit southeast Iowa for generations.”